Traveling can be a wonderful experience and people travel for all sorts of reasons. You get to meet new people, try different foods, experience different cultures and many more. However, traveling requires a whole lot of spending too – or does it?
Traveling on a budget is highly achievable nowadays. There are many destinations with reasonably priced flights, cheap hotels and even cheaper food! It all comes down to how you plan for it. To make the most of your trip, here are some tips on how to plan on a budget.
1. Choose a Budget Destination
Consider a budget destination if you haven’t chosen one. There are many places that are budget friendly and adventure worthy at the same time. For example, countries within the SEA region are known for cheap food and accommodations.
They’re also filled with history and activities. South American countries such as Bolivia and Argentina or European countries like Romania and Bosnia are reputedly affordable destinations too!
2. Research the Place You’ve Chosen
If you already have a destination in mind, be sure to conduct some research before booking your tickets. Learn about the economy and background of that location as to how it would fare against your budget.
This should give you an idea of how much you need to fork out.
3. Look for the Best Flights and Dates
Airfares constantly fluctuate due to the demand, timing and sales of tickets. If possible, try to avoid holiday seasons or weekend flights as tickets tend to be more expensive. You should also book your tickets in advance as last minute flights can be expensive.
In complete disregard to tip number 1, leave your travel destination open and book your tickets based on price. This is probably the cheapest option as you have the choice of choosing the cheapest flight.
4. Choose Budget Accommodations
Staying in an expensive hotel is nice but swapping that out for a dorm or hostel is not as bad as you think. Furthermore, you get to save a ton of money which you can use on food or souvenirs instead.
If you’re willing to scale a little higher, try browsing through AirBnB or TripAdvisor to see their selection of available accommodations. You could also reach out to family and friends to see if they have a place that can accommodate you for a few nights.
They could then show you around places which may make your trip more worthwhile.
5. Pack Diligently
Only pack the essentials such as proper clothes, a good pair of shoes and medication if necessary. Light and efficient baggage is the best way to travel as it increases your chance of avoiding any baggage fee to and from your destination.
Moreover, bringing the right things will also refrain you from buying more things while you’re away. Apart from buying a few souvenirs, unnecessary spendings can be detrimental to your budget.
6. Search for Discounts
Whether it’s for your flight or accommodation, always be on the lookout for discounts. Discounts are one of the best ways to reduce your expenditure and it boils down to how persistent you are in finding the best deals.
For example, some airlines are known to offer discounted rates when you book tickets a few months before your travel date. The bottom line, always plan beforehand and you’re bound to come across deals and discounts!
7. Save Up
It’s a no-brainer that you need to save up in order to travel. Nevertheless, saving does get overlooked at times and it’s best to remind yourself now and then (regardless if you’re traveling). Start saving from the time you booked your tickets to the time you take off.
Allocate some cash every month, work overtime or get a freelance gig if you have to. Regardless of your method (as long as it’s legal), save now and reap the benefits later.
8. Plan Accordingly
Last but not least, your plan won’t fall into place unless you plan accordingly. This is probably the most important rule in all of traveling and rightfully so. Planning ahead will help you make the most out of tip 1 to 7 and you can ultimately enjoy your trip.
So plan ahead and avoid unnecessary spendings, last minute flights and most importantly, a shortage of money!